For HappyIV re Blenheim BA250
Reported by Warner in
The Bristol Blenheim, confirmed by Bailey/Air Britain
RAF Aircraft BA100 BZ99 and by CWGC Nakuru graves register online as
8 May 1943 BA250 70 OTU Mk V
One flap failed on approach, rolled and dived into the ground, Nakuru.
1383923 Sgt WA Tait RAFVR Pilot
1456331 Sgt D Richardson RAFVR Nav/Bmr
1216487 Sgt F Barber RAFVR W.Op/A.G.
killed, buried in Nakuru North cemetery (graves 492,490,491 respectively).
During 1943, two 70 OTU aircraft were lost in the same circumstances, this being the second. The other was two days earlier: a Mark IV Blenheim with the same outcome for the RAFVR crew, all Sgts. These were the only Blenheim Middle East/Africa training losses to this cause in 1943.
Further to Kenya Blenheims above remarks re 70 OTU and 72 OTU Blenheim losses, I sent this summary to him previously:
A quick count from Warner,
Appendices, shows that, for the period Nov
41 to May 43 (ie 72 OTU period), 70 OTU accounted for about 53% of
combined 70 & 72 OTU Blenheim losses.
Starting from Jul 41 (adding the period of 211 Sqn in training role at
Wadi Gazouza), the proportion is little different.
Counting from Feb 41 (Warner Appendices dates), the proportion rises
to about 60% - but reflects five months in which 70 OTU was training
(eg at Ismalia) but 211 was not and 72 OTU didn't exist.
70 and 72 OTU:
The 211 Sqn and 72 OTU story is also covered here:
The Middle East
and here
RAAF personnel
Along with my narratives for a number of individuals at both 70 OTU and 72 OTU, and on Blenheim I and IV losses.
Don Clark
No. 211 Squadron RAF